Welcome to the devotional Hierophant tarot card. He is the traditional High Priest of a religious institution, like the middle man to whatever spiritual concept of god you may subscribe to. God is not, however, a prerequisite for this card. The Hierophant is as applicable to an atheist or agnostic as he is to the spiritually inclined. His character, like all tarot cards, is an allegory for faith in all contexts. His guidance is direct from The High Priestess, as if he were a doorway to her space. Gandolf from Lord of the Rings is a great modern example of this archetype. Magic is the Priestess he follows.

 

At some stage we all require solace, peace and a suspension of disbelief. When it all goes dark we tend to call upon higher forces and ask for assistance. This card is an encouragement to take a step into a new sense of commitment to our pathway and to have faith in the direction we're walking. The Hierophant is here to remind us that although we may have no map and maybe even lack experience, we do have support from Spirit and the ability to prepare ourselves thoroughly.

 

So, how do we prepare?

 

Firstly, we must commit to our goals. This is where we promise ourselves to be in alignment with our higher self. This requires clear conscience in asking "Am I ready for this?". The weight of responsibility can feel great, and it must align with our desires. Then it becomes an expression of our heart rather than an obligation we feel we are carrying.

 

Whether faith is required in ourselves or in the flow of our lives in general, it cannot be found in suspicion, distrust or dogma. It requires belief as the first preliminary step. The negatives of these elements are embodied in the shadow side of this card, which can be seen in its worst form in fundamental, judgemental and persecuting behaviour. Many a tarot column focuses on these drawbacks, while failing to appreciate that the Hierophant cannot be embraced without a concerted effort at self-discipline and a hearty dose of humility.

 

Faith does not set conditions. It has little regard for logic. It belongs to the realm of the heart and to acceptance of our position in the here and now. It is hard to define and therefore hard to conjure. So how do we go about claiming it?

 

The High Priest tells us that consistency and regularity is of great benefit to us. Walking our talk will mean we avoid pitfalls. For example, if we are studying for an exam, then revising for a day is far less likely to assist us than revising for a few hours every day. Until we have assimilated what we need to learn, we must focus on keeping our practice frequent. When we do that, confidence starts to grow in the unknown. We feel better prepared for whatever unseen questions may come up.

 

In the example of committing to another person, such as the Hierophant's traditional association with marriage, we must make a concerted effort to keep our devotion steady. This is not achieved by overlooking ourselves in their favour, but by committing fully to our own intentions. Devotion cannot be forced. We must discover it by repeating good habits that can fuel our personal enthusiasm to endure. If we struggle with showing tenderness for example, we must practise displaying it until it feels natural. Once we have built up confidence it seems to come easily. Many a gym goer knows this well! The benefits of our actions become the motivating force, and we come to appreciate the discipline it takes to power through our initial difficulties.

 

The High Priest can also represent a trusted friend, advisor or counsellor. This person can provide real assistance, like a guardian angel who knows exactly what to say at just the right time. Valuable insight is one of this cards many gifts. In the Thoth deck, Crowley depicts this card as an archangel. This is a wonderful allegory for his role as our ally. If we are resistant to accepting his guidance, then we may struggle with with clinging to pre-determined expectations that do not marry with our efforts.

 

Maybe you are the allegorical angel for someone else. To make the most of this position, make sure you are consistent in your advice and avoid judgement at all costs. But I'm preaching to the converted, because you already know that!

 

Allow the Hierophant to walk you through the door of your personal dedication. Commit to the traditions you would like to see shape your life. Walk the talk of your belief system, and in return you won't have to look for faith.

 

Faith will find you.